Keen to impress: Lakers player Pau Gasol is fouled Collins in the second half at Staples Center

Collins’ team-mates were more willing to talk about his moment of history, with Pierce, who scored 25 points in the game, saying: 'In the society we live in, you know this was going to happen eventually.

'He is a guy who’s going to be able to open the door for so many athletes - not only in America but around the world - to feel comfortable to come out and not feel embarrassed and feel like they’re welcomed in the sports world.'

Collins’ return comes just over two months before May’s NFL draft in which Michael Sam, a defensive end from the University of Missouri who came out as gay earlier this month, is expected to be signed as that league’s first openly gay player.

Pierce added: 'It isn’t about race, gender or sexuality. It’s about being a part of a team and caring for one another. That’s all that matters at the end of the day.'

Collins goes up to soon as he attempts a block

Friendly rivalry: Collins shares a handshake

Deron Williams, who led all scorers with 30 points, agreed, saying: 'He’s (Collins) a basketball player.

'He’s been doing this for a long time, so that didn’t change. Maybe outside perception did, but inside this locker room it wasn’t a big deal or a distraction.

'But he played huge for us. He made big plays on defense and was instrumental in this win. I know he’s been sitting around waiting for a job, and we’re excited about having Jason.'

Opponent Kendall Marshall added: 'As far as I’m concerned, when I see him, I see him as a great defender. That’s all I see when I’m out there.'

Ready: Collins waits to enter the game against the Los Angeles Lakers

Standing tall: Collins defends against Lakers center Chris Kaman

NBA commissioner Adam Silver welcomed Collins’ return with a statement which read: 'Jason told us that his goal was to earn another contract with an NBA team. I want to commend him on achieving his goal.

'I know everyone in the NBA family is excited for him and proud that our league fosters an inclusive and respectful environment.'

Collins previously spent six years with the Nets, then based in New Jersey, from 2001 and helped them to the NBA play-offs two years in succession. He has played for five other teams, including a three-year spell with the Atlanta Hawks.